US5485737A - Apparatus for hydroforming a vehicle manifold - Google Patents

Apparatus for hydroforming a vehicle manifold Download PDF

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Publication number
US5485737A
US5485737A US08/408,742 US40874295A US5485737A US 5485737 A US5485737 A US 5485737A US 40874295 A US40874295 A US 40874295A US 5485737 A US5485737 A US 5485737A
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United States
Prior art keywords
die
die set
tube
stamping
tubular member
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US08/408,742
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Devere C. Dickerson
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Flexible Metal Inc
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Mascotech Tubular Products Inc
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Assigned to CHASE MANHATTAN BANK, AS COLLATERAL AGENT, THE reassignment CHASE MANHATTAN BANK, AS COLLATERAL AGENT, THE SECURITY INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: MASCOTECH, INC.
Assigned to METALDYNE TUBULAR PRODUCTS, INC. reassignment METALDYNE TUBULAR PRODUCTS, INC. CHANGE OF NAME (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: MASCOTECH TUBULAR PRODUCTS, INC.
Assigned to JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A. AS COLLATERAL AGENT reassignment JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A. AS COLLATERAL AGENT SECURITY AGREEMENT Assignors: METALDYNE COMPANY LLC, METALDYNE CORPORATION, METALDYNE MACHINING AND ASSEMBLY COMPANY, INC., METALDYNE SINTERED COMPONENTS, LLC, METALDYNE TUBULAR PRODUCTS, INC., NC-M CHASSIS SYSTEMS, LLC
Assigned to DEUTSCHE BANK AG, NEW YORK BRANCH, AS COLLATERAL AGENT reassignment DEUTSCHE BANK AG, NEW YORK BRANCH, AS COLLATERAL AGENT SECURITY AGREEMENT Assignors: METALDYNE TUBULAR PRODUCTS, INC.
Assigned to METALDYNE MACHINING AND ASSEMBLY COMPANY, INC., METALDYNE SINTERED COMPONENTS, LLC, METALDYNE COMPANY LLC, METALDYNE CORPORATION, METALDYNE TUBULAR PRODUCTS, INC., NC-M CHASSIS SYSTEMS, LLC reassignment METALDYNE MACHINING AND ASSEMBLY COMPANY, INC. TERMINATION AND RELEASE OF SECURITY INTEREST IN PATENT RIGHTS Assignors: JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A., AS COLLATERAL AGENT
Assigned to MASCOTECH, INC. reassignment MASCOTECH, INC. TERMINATION AND RELEASE OF SECURITY INTEREST IN PATENT RIGHTS Assignors: JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A. (F/K/A THE CHASE MANHATTAN BANK), AS COLLATERAL AGENT
Assigned to JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A., AS COLLATERAL AGENT reassignment JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A., AS COLLATERAL AGENT SECURITY AGREEMENT Assignors: METALDYNE TUBULAR PRODUCTS, INC.
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Assigned to THE BANK OF NEW YORK TRUST COMPANY, N.A. reassignment THE BANK OF NEW YORK TRUST COMPANY, N.A. SECURITY AGREEMENT Assignors: METALDYNE TUBULAR PRODUCTS, INC.
Assigned to METALDYNE TUBULAR PRODUCTS, INC. reassignment METALDYNE TUBULAR PRODUCTS, INC. PATENT RELEASE Assignors: THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON TRUST COMPANY, N.A.
Assigned to METALDYNE TUBULAR PRODUCTS, INC. reassignment METALDYNE TUBULAR PRODUCTS, INC. PATENT RELEASE Assignors: THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON TRUST COMPANY, N.A.
Assigned to METALDYNE TUBULAR COMPONENTS, LLC reassignment METALDYNE TUBULAR COMPONENTS, LLC ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: METALDYNE COMPANY LLC, METALDYNE CORPORATION, METALDYNE MACHINING AND ASSEMBLY COMPANY, INC., METALDYNE SINTERED COMPONENTS, LLC, METALDYNE TUBULAR PRODUCTS, INC., NC-M CHASSIS SYSTEMS, LLC
Assigned to WILMINGTON TRUST FSB, AS COLLATERAL AGENT reassignment WILMINGTON TRUST FSB, AS COLLATERAL AGENT FIRST LIEN SECURITY INTEREST Assignors: METALDYNE BSM, LLC, METALDYNE CHASSIS PRODUCTS, LLC, METALDYNE TUBULAR COMPONENTS, LLC, METALDYNE, LLC
Assigned to WILMINGTON TRUST FSB, AS COLLATERAL AGENT reassignment WILMINGTON TRUST FSB, AS COLLATERAL AGENT SECOND LIEN SECURITY INTEREST Assignors: METALDYNE BSM, LLC, METALDYNE CHASSIS PRODUCTS, LLC, METALDYNE TUBULAR COMPONENTS, LLC, METALDYNE, LLC
Assigned to METALDYNE TUBULAR COMPONENTS, LLC reassignment METALDYNE TUBULAR COMPONENTS, LLC BANKRUPTCY COURT ORDER RELEASING ALL LIENS, INCLUDING THE SECURITY INTEREST RECORDED AT REEL/FRAME 018350/0097 Assignors: JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A., AS COLLATERAL AGENT
Assigned to METALDYNE TUBULAR COMPONENTS, LLC reassignment METALDYNE TUBULAR COMPONENTS, LLC BANKRUPTCY COURT ORDER RELEASING ALL LIENS, INCLUDING THE SECURITY INTEREST RECORDED AT REEL/FRAME 018866/0125 Assignors: DEUTSCHE BANK AG, NEW YORK BRANCH, AS COLLATERAL AGENT
Assigned to METALDYNE TUBULAR COMPONENTS, LLC reassignment METALDYNE TUBULAR COMPONENTS, LLC BANKRUPTCY COURT ORDER RELEASING ALL LIENS, INCLUDING THE SECURITY INTEREST RECORDED AT REEL/FRAME 018861/0602 Assignors: JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A., AS COLLATERAL AGENT
Assigned to METALDYNE TUBULAR COMPONENTS, LLC reassignment METALDYNE TUBULAR COMPONENTS, LLC RELEASE OF SECURITY INTEREST IN PATENTS Assignors: WILMINGTON TRUST FSB, AS COLLATERAL AGENT
Assigned to METALDYNE, LLC, METALDYNE BSM, LLC, METALDYNE TUBULUAR COMPONENTS, LLC reassignment METALDYNE, LLC RELEASE OF SECURITY INTEREST IN PATENTS SECOND LIEN RECORDED AT REEL/FRAME 023409/0512 Assignors: WILMINGTON TRUST FSB, AS COLLATERAL AGENT
Assigned to METALDYNE, LLC, METALDYNE BSM, LLC, METALDYNE TUBULUAR COMPONENTS, LLC reassignment METALDYNE, LLC RELEASE OF SECURITY INTEREST IN PATENTS FIRST LIEN RECORDED AT REEL/FRAME 023409/0063 Assignors: WILMINGTON TRUST FSB, AS COLLATERAL AGENT
Assigned to METALDYNE, LLC, MD INVESTORS CORPORATION, METALDYNE BSM, LLC, METALDYNE TUBULAR COMPONENTS, LLC, PUNCHCRAFT MACHINING AND TOOLING, LLC, METALDYNE M&A BLUFFTON, LLC, METALDYNE SINTERED RIDGWAY, LLC, METALDYNE POWERTRAIN COMPONENTS, INC., METALDYNE SINTERFORGED PRODUCTS, LLC reassignment METALDYNE, LLC TERMINATION OF SECURITY INTEREST Assignors: BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., AS COLLATERAL AGENT
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Assigned to FLEXIBLE METAL INC. reassignment FLEXIBLE METAL INC. ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: HYSPAN PRECISION PRODUCTS, INC.
Assigned to HYSPAN PRECISION PRODUCTS, INC. reassignment HYSPAN PRECISION PRODUCTS, INC. ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: METALDYNE TUBULAR COMPONENTS, LLC
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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B21—MECHANICAL METAL-WORKING WITHOUT ESSENTIALLY REMOVING MATERIAL; PUNCHING METAL
    • B21D—WORKING OR PROCESSING OF SHEET METAL OR METAL TUBES, RODS OR PROFILES WITHOUT ESSENTIALLY REMOVING MATERIAL; PUNCHING METAL
    • B21D9/00—Bending tubes using mandrels or the like
    • B21D9/15—Bending tubes using mandrels or the like using filling material of indefinite shape, e.g. sand, plastic material
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B21—MECHANICAL METAL-WORKING WITHOUT ESSENTIALLY REMOVING MATERIAL; PUNCHING METAL
    • B21D—WORKING OR PROCESSING OF SHEET METAL OR METAL TUBES, RODS OR PROFILES WITHOUT ESSENTIALLY REMOVING MATERIAL; PUNCHING METAL
    • B21D9/00—Bending tubes using mandrels or the like
    • B21D9/08—Bending tubes using mandrels or the like in press brakes or between rams and anvils or abutments; Pliers with forming dies
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T29/00—Metal working
    • Y10T29/49—Method of mechanical manufacture
    • Y10T29/49398—Muffler, manifold or exhaust pipe making
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T29/00—Metal working
    • Y10T29/49—Method of mechanical manufacture
    • Y10T29/49805—Shaping by direct application of fluent pressure

Definitions

  • This invention relates to a process for forming the tubular members of a vehicle manifold and, in particular, to forming the compound curvatures of the tubular member using cooperating die sets and a hydroforming process to maintain an internal fluid pressure preventing deformation of the tube during bending.
  • Sheet metal may be stamped and stretched to form the desired configuration.
  • Tubular blanks have been bent, stretched and radially expanded to form complex configurations.
  • crimping or buckling may occur at the inner radius of the bend.
  • the inner radius has been supported to guide the compression at the inner surface as the outer surface is stretched. Nevertheless, even with support certain configurations simply cannot be formed without deformation of the tubular member.
  • Hydroforming of metal components was developed to alleviate the deformation of the metal during bending, stretching, etc. into complex configurations.
  • the general principal of hydroforming comprises applying a predetermined fluid pressure to an area of the metal to be manipulated.
  • an internal fluid pressure is applied as the tube is bent and stretched.
  • this is accomplished by immersing the tube in a fluid bath to fill the tube, applying end plugs to the tube which are used to increase the internal pressure to a predetermined level and bending the tube along a plane perpendicular to the die stroke.
  • the tube may be bent around a die to the desired configuration.
  • the hydroforming process may also be used to radially expand sections of the tube by increasing the internal pressure at that region.
  • hydroforming process provides in manipulating metal without deformation
  • the complexity of the bent tube is limited by the dies used in the process.
  • the known hydroforming processes bend the tube only in a single plane. Modern components are becoming increasingly complicated requiring compound bends.
  • the hydroforming process lends itself to the formation of complex tubular products without deformation of the metal material.
  • the present invention overcomes the disadvantages of the prior known methods of forming complex tubular members by providing a hydroforming process which prevents deformation of the tube in conjunction with a pair of die sets to form the complex configuration.
  • the present invention is directed to a hydroforming process to form compound bends in a tubular member to be used in a vehicle manifold.
  • vehicle manufacturers are designing engines which include manifold pipes bending through closely defined spaces. Add to this the pressure to manufacture such components in a cost effective manner while maintaining the highest standards of quality.
  • the process and apparatus of the present invention facilitates the attainment of these objections.
  • the hydroforming process of the present invention involves delivering a tubular blank to a fluid bath which fills the blank with a hydroforming fluid.
  • the ends of the blank are plugged and the internal fluid pressure is increased to the desired level.
  • the dies of a dual direction die press are sequentially brought into engagement with the pressurized tubular blank to first bend the tube along one plane and then another.
  • a first set of upper and lower dies close around the blank to bend the tube in the vertical plane.
  • a second set of horizontal dies are wedged between the upper and lower dies to spread them as the horizontal dies bend the tube in the horizontal plane.
  • the vertical bends formed by the first die set will be formed in the horizontal dies so that the vertical bends are not deformed as the horizontal die set forms the second bend.
  • FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a hydroforming apparatus for manufacturing a tubular member for a vehicle manifold having a compound configuration
  • FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the apparatus with a tubular blank delivered to the apparatus;
  • FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the apparatus with the ends of the tubular blank plugged for increased internal fluid pressure
  • FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the apparatus with the first die set in contact with the tubular blank to bend the tube along first plane;
  • FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the apparatus with the finished tube removed from the apparatus.
  • FIG. 6 is an end perspective of the die for forming the tubular member along the two bend planes.
  • FIGS. 1 through 5 there is shown an apparatus 10 for the manufacture of complex tubular members in accordance with the present invention.
  • the tubular members of the present invention are adapted for use as the exhaust or intake pipes of a vehicle manifold and include compound curvatures including "bend-on-bend" which can only be economically accomplished using the technology of the present invention.
  • the bend-on-bend compound curvature of the tubular member can best be defined as an end of the tube in a first plane with an overlying bend in a second, typically perpendicular, plane.
  • the hydroforming apparatus and process of the present invention reliably accomplishes the compound curvature necessary to form a vehicle manifold tube capable of fitting within modern engine compartments.
  • the hydroforming apparatus 10 of the present invention includes a bath or pan 12 forming a reservoir for the hydroforming fluid 14.
  • a pair of hydraulic cylinders 16 are disposed within the pan 12.
  • the cylinders 16 are in fluid communication with a hydraulic power unit 18 which controls the reciprocal movement of a piston 20 within the cylinder 16.
  • the piston 20 is connected to a rod 22 which extends from the cylinder housing 16 and has a plug 24 mounted to the exterior end of the piston rod 22.
  • the plugs 24 of the hydraulic cylinders 16 are used to seal the ends of the tubular blank 100 to create an internal fluid pressure during the hydroforming process as will be subsequently described.
  • a stationary lower die 26 Positioned within the pan 12 is a stationary lower die 26.
  • the lower die 26 is supported by a bolster 28 beneath the pan 12 in order to withstand the stamping forces associated with the process.
  • the lower die 26 forms a part of a first die set 30 which also includes upper die 32 movable into mating engagement with lower die 26.
  • the first die set 30 forms the bends of the tubular member 100 along a first vertical plane.
  • the upper die 32 is secured to a slide 34 which is used to move the upper die 32 vertically into stamping engagement.
  • a splash shield 36 is provided on the upper die 32 to minimize the splash of fluid from the pan 12 during the stamping process.
  • a second die set 40 is used to form bends along a second, typically perpendicular plane.
  • the second die set 40 includes a first horizontal die 42 and a second horizontal die 44 which engage the tubular blank 100 from the sides.
  • the upper and lower die set 30 includes a tooling configuration 46 which imparts a desired configuration on the tubular member 100.
  • This tooling configuration 46 is disposed in a first, vertical plane which imparts bends along a first plane. Consequently, the second die set 40 must incorporate the bends along the vertical plane in order to receive the tubular member 100 along the second horizontal plane.
  • the tubular member 100 will have a compound curvature including bend-on-bend configuration imposed by the sequential stamping of the die sets 30 and 40.
  • the die sets 30,40 each include cooperating camming surfaces 50 along a corner edge.
  • the surfaces 50 are used to wedge the second die set 40 between the first die set 30. With the first die set 30 closed on the tubular member 100, the second die set 40 is extended between the cam surfaces 50 of the first die set 30 to spread the first die set 30 and permit the second die set 40 to stamp the tubular member 100 along the second plane.
  • both die sets 30 and 40 are utilized in the apparatus 10 in order to form the compound curvature. Additionally, a hydroforming process is used whereby a predetermined fluid pressure is maintained within the tubular member to prevent deformation during the dual stamping process. Without the internal pressure, the bend-on-bend compound curvature could not be reliably constructed.
  • FIG. 1 shows the apparatus 10 in a stand-by position with the die sets 30,40 and the hydraulic cylinders 16 retracted.
  • a tubular blank 100 is delivered to the pan 12 and immersed within the fluid 14 (FIG. 2).
  • the fluid 14 may be any number of different fluids, preferably the fluid 14 is a hydraulic oil which will prevent corrosion of the part yet is compressible within the tubular member 100 to create the desired internal pressure.
  • the plugs 24 are extended to engage the ends of the tubular member 100.
  • the fluid pressure within the tube 100 is increased to the desired level to prevent deformation during the stamping operation. With the tubular member 100 secured and pressurized (FIG.
  • the upper and lower die set 30 engages the tubular blank 100 to impart bends along a vertical plane and then the second die set 40 stamps the second bends on the tubular blank 100.
  • the die sets 30,40 are fully retracted and the plugs 24 withdrawn to release the manifold tube 100.
  • Subsequent trimming and cutting operations are performed at a separate station to ready the tubes 100 for incorporation into the manifold assembly.
  • a manifold tube is manufactured in a reliable and economical manner which permits the incorporation of complex and compound curvatures to meet engineering specifications.

Abstract

A hydroforming process and apparatus for manufacturing components of a vehicle exhaust or intake manifold. The hydroforming process is utilized to form a tubular member to the desired configuration for use in a manifold. The tubular member is loaded into a hydroform press and filled with a suitable liquid. The liquid within the tube is pressurized in order to maintain a predetermined internal fluid pressure which prevents collapse and crimping of the tube during forming. The hydroform press includes two sets of dies to form a compound bend in the pressurized tube. Upper and lower dies close on the tube first to bend the tube in a vertical plane. Horizontal dies are wedged inwardly spreading the first die set and bending the tube in a horizontal plane. As a result, a compound configuration may be placed on the tube making it suitable for use in a vehicle manifold.

Description

This is a divisional of copending application Ser. No. 08/207,570 filed on Mar. 7, 1994.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
I. Field of The Invention
This invention relates to a process for forming the tubular members of a vehicle manifold and, in particular, to forming the compound curvatures of the tubular member using cooperating die sets and a hydroforming process to maintain an internal fluid pressure preventing deformation of the tube during bending.
II. Description Of The Prior Art
Various metal forming processes are known for creating complex configurations from a metal blank. Sheet metal may be stamped and stretched to form the desired configuration. Tubular blanks have been bent, stretched and radially expanded to form complex configurations. However, depending upon the size of the tubing and the complexity of the desired configuration, crimping or buckling may occur at the inner radius of the bend. In past situations, the inner radius has been supported to guide the compression at the inner surface as the outer surface is stretched. Nevertheless, even with support certain configurations simply cannot be formed without deformation of the tubular member.
Hydroforming of metal components was developed to alleviate the deformation of the metal during bending, stretching, etc. into complex configurations. The general principal of hydroforming comprises applying a predetermined fluid pressure to an area of the metal to be manipulated. In the case of a tubular member, an internal fluid pressure is applied as the tube is bent and stretched. Typically, this is accomplished by immersing the tube in a fluid bath to fill the tube, applying end plugs to the tube which are used to increase the internal pressure to a predetermined level and bending the tube along a plane perpendicular to the die stroke. Under certain procedures, the tube may be bent around a die to the desired configuration. The hydroforming process may also be used to radially expand sections of the tube by increasing the internal pressure at that region.
Despite the advantages a hydroforming process provides in manipulating metal without deformation, the complexity of the bent tube is limited by the dies used in the process. The known hydroforming processes bend the tube only in a single plane. Modern components are becoming increasingly complicated requiring compound bends. The hydroforming process lends itself to the formation of complex tubular products without deformation of the metal material.
SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT INVENTION
The present invention overcomes the disadvantages of the prior known methods of forming complex tubular members by providing a hydroforming process which prevents deformation of the tube in conjunction with a pair of die sets to form the complex configuration.
The present invention is directed to a hydroforming process to form compound bends in a tubular member to be used in a vehicle manifold. With increased space constrictions, vehicle manufacturers are designing engines which include manifold pipes bending through closely defined spaces. Add to this the pressure to manufacture such components in a cost effective manner while maintaining the highest standards of quality. The process and apparatus of the present invention facilitates the attainment of these objections.
The hydroforming process of the present invention involves delivering a tubular blank to a fluid bath which fills the blank with a hydroforming fluid. The ends of the blank are plugged and the internal fluid pressure is increased to the desired level. The dies of a dual direction die press are sequentially brought into engagement with the pressurized tubular blank to first bend the tube along one plane and then another. A first set of upper and lower dies close around the blank to bend the tube in the vertical plane. A second set of horizontal dies are wedged between the upper and lower dies to spread them as the horizontal dies bend the tube in the horizontal plane. The vertical bends formed by the first die set will be formed in the horizontal dies so that the vertical bends are not deformed as the horizontal die set forms the second bend. With the configuration of the tubular member formed, the part can be released from the apparatus for final trimming and parting.
Other objects, features, and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the following detailed description taken in connection with the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING
The present invention will be more fully understood by reference to the following detailed description of a preferred embodiment of the present invention when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawing, in which like reference characters refer to like parts throughout the views and in which:
FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a hydroforming apparatus for manufacturing a tubular member for a vehicle manifold having a compound configuration;
FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the apparatus with a tubular blank delivered to the apparatus;
FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the apparatus with the ends of the tubular blank plugged for increased internal fluid pressure;
FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the apparatus with the first die set in contact with the tubular blank to bend the tube along first plane;
FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the apparatus with the finished tube removed from the apparatus; and
FIG. 6 is an end perspective of the die for forming the tubular member along the two bend planes.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF A PREFERRED EMBODIMENT OF THE PRESENT INVENTION
Referring first to FIGS. 1 through 5, there is shown an apparatus 10 for the manufacture of complex tubular members in accordance with the present invention. The tubular members of the present invention are adapted for use as the exhaust or intake pipes of a vehicle manifold and include compound curvatures including "bend-on-bend" which can only be economically accomplished using the technology of the present invention. The bend-on-bend compound curvature of the tubular member can best be defined as an end of the tube in a first plane with an overlying bend in a second, typically perpendicular, plane. The hydroforming apparatus and process of the present invention reliably accomplishes the compound curvature necessary to form a vehicle manifold tube capable of fitting within modern engine compartments.
The hydroforming apparatus 10 of the present invention includes a bath or pan 12 forming a reservoir for the hydroforming fluid 14. A pair of hydraulic cylinders 16 are disposed within the pan 12. The cylinders 16 are in fluid communication with a hydraulic power unit 18 which controls the reciprocal movement of a piston 20 within the cylinder 16. The piston 20 is connected to a rod 22 which extends from the cylinder housing 16 and has a plug 24 mounted to the exterior end of the piston rod 22. The plugs 24 of the hydraulic cylinders 16 are used to seal the ends of the tubular blank 100 to create an internal fluid pressure during the hydroforming process as will be subsequently described.
Positioned within the pan 12 is a stationary lower die 26. The lower die 26 is supported by a bolster 28 beneath the pan 12 in order to withstand the stamping forces associated with the process. The lower die 26 forms a part of a first die set 30 which also includes upper die 32 movable into mating engagement with lower die 26. The first die set 30 forms the bends of the tubular member 100 along a first vertical plane. The upper die 32 is secured to a slide 34 which is used to move the upper die 32 vertically into stamping engagement. A splash shield 36 is provided on the upper die 32 to minimize the splash of fluid from the pan 12 during the stamping process.
Referring now to FIG. 6, while the first die set 30 is suitable for forming a first set of bends in the tubular member 100, a second die set 40 is used to form bends along a second, typically perpendicular plane. The second die set 40 includes a first horizontal die 42 and a second horizontal die 44 which engage the tubular blank 100 from the sides. The upper and lower die set 30 includes a tooling configuration 46 which imparts a desired configuration on the tubular member 100. This tooling configuration 46 is disposed in a first, vertical plane which imparts bends along a first plane. Consequently, the second die set 40 must incorporate the bends along the vertical plane in order to receive the tubular member 100 along the second horizontal plane. As a result, the tubular member 100 will have a compound curvature including bend-on-bend configuration imposed by the sequential stamping of the die sets 30 and 40.
The die sets 30,40 each include cooperating camming surfaces 50 along a corner edge. The surfaces 50 are used to wedge the second die set 40 between the first die set 30. With the first die set 30 closed on the tubular member 100, the second die set 40 is extended between the cam surfaces 50 of the first die set 30 to spread the first die set 30 and permit the second die set 40 to stamp the tubular member 100 along the second plane.
Referring to FIGS. 1 through 6, the process of manufacturing a compound tubular member using hydroforming will now be described. It should be understood that both die sets 30 and 40 are utilized in the apparatus 10 in order to form the compound curvature. Additionally, a hydroforming process is used whereby a predetermined fluid pressure is maintained within the tubular member to prevent deformation during the dual stamping process. Without the internal pressure, the bend-on-bend compound curvature could not be reliably constructed.
FIG. 1 shows the apparatus 10 in a stand-by position with the die sets 30,40 and the hydraulic cylinders 16 retracted. A tubular blank 100 is delivered to the pan 12 and immersed within the fluid 14 (FIG. 2). Although the fluid 14 may be any number of different fluids, preferably the fluid 14 is a hydraulic oil which will prevent corrosion of the part yet is compressible within the tubular member 100 to create the desired internal pressure. As shown in FIG. 3, the plugs 24 are extended to engage the ends of the tubular member 100. The fluid pressure within the tube 100 is increased to the desired level to prevent deformation during the stamping operation. With the tubular member 100 secured and pressurized (FIG. 4), first the upper and lower die set 30 engages the tubular blank 100 to impart bends along a vertical plane and then the second die set 40 stamps the second bends on the tubular blank 100. Upon completion of the stamping operations, the die sets 30,40 are fully retracted and the plugs 24 withdrawn to release the manifold tube 100. Subsequent trimming and cutting operations are performed at a separate station to ready the tubes 100 for incorporation into the manifold assembly. As a result, a manifold tube is manufactured in a reliable and economical manner which permits the incorporation of complex and compound curvatures to meet engineering specifications.
The foregoing detailed description has been given for clearness of understanding only and no unnecessary limitations should be understood therefrom as some modifications will be obvious to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the appended claims.

Claims (5)

What is claimed is:
1. An apparatus for manufacturing a tubular member of a vehicle manifold using hydroforming pressure to prevent deformation of said tubular member, said tubular member having a compound curvature for use in the manifold, the apparatus comprising:
a fluid bath formed by a pan having a predetermined volume of fluid therein;
a pair of hydraulically actuated cylinders disposed within said pan for sealingly retaining ends of a tubular blank, said cylinders including selectively extendable piston rods having seal plugs on the exterior ends of said piston rods for sealingly engaging the ends of said tubular blank;
means for increasing the internal fluid pressure within said tubular blank to a predetermined level;
a first die set disposed between said cylinders for stamping a curvature in said tubular blank along a first plane; and
a second die set disposed between said cylinders for stamping a curvature in said tubular blank along a second plane.
2. The apparatus as defined in claim 1 wherein said first die set includes a pair of vertically oriented die tools for stamping a curvature in said tubular blank along a vertical plane.
3. The apparatus as defined in claim 2 wherein a lower die of said first die set is fixedly mounted within said pan, an upper die of said first die set movable into stamping engagement with said lower die.
4. The apparatus as defined in claim 2 wherein said second die set includes a pair of horizontally oriented die tools for stamping a curvature in said tubular blank along a horizontal plane, said horizontally oriented die tools movable into stamping engagement between said upper and lower dies.
5. The apparatus as defined in claim 4 wherein said first and second die sets include camming surfaces whereby said second die set wedges said first die set apart upon actuation of said second die set.
US08/408,742 1994-03-07 1995-03-22 Apparatus for hydroforming a vehicle manifold Expired - Lifetime US5485737A (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US08/408,742 US5485737A (en) 1994-03-07 1995-03-22 Apparatus for hydroforming a vehicle manifold

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US08/207,570 US5471857A (en) 1994-03-07 1994-03-07 Process for hydroforming a vehicle manifold
US08/408,742 US5485737A (en) 1994-03-07 1995-03-22 Apparatus for hydroforming a vehicle manifold

Related Parent Applications (1)

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US08/207,570 Division US5471857A (en) 1994-03-07 1994-03-07 Process for hydroforming a vehicle manifold

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US5485737A true US5485737A (en) 1996-01-23

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US5813266A (en) * 1995-10-31 1998-09-29 Greenville Tool & Die Company Method of forming and piercing a tube
US5901593A (en) * 1998-01-26 1999-05-11 Northrop Grumman Corporation Making hydropress formblocks and dies utilizing stereolithography and liquid molding compounds
US6089064A (en) * 1999-02-26 2000-07-18 Tauzer; Paul J. Sliding plug for applying end loads during isostatic bulge forming
US6098437A (en) * 1998-03-20 2000-08-08 The Budd Company Hydroformed control arm
US6209372B1 (en) 1999-09-20 2001-04-03 The Budd Company Internal hydroformed reinforcements
US6270126B1 (en) 1998-01-08 2001-08-07 Formrite Companies, Inc. Hydroformed hose fittings and related hose assemblies
US6305204B1 (en) 2000-07-13 2001-10-23 The Boeing Company Bulge forming machine
US6430812B1 (en) 1997-08-28 2002-08-13 The Boeing Company Superplastic forming of tubing pull-outs
US6434990B1 (en) 1999-01-08 2002-08-20 Formrite Companies, Inc. Hose fitting and die for preparation
US6510720B1 (en) 2001-10-18 2003-01-28 Hartwick Professionals, Inc. Hydraulic pressure forming using a self aligning and activating die system
US6510920B1 (en) 1999-08-31 2003-01-28 Dana Corporation Vehicle exhaust system and method of manufacture
AU764040B2 (en) * 1998-01-08 2003-08-07 Formrite Companies, Inc. Hose fitting and die for preparation
WO2005031239A1 (en) * 2003-10-02 2005-04-07 Behr Gmbh & Co. Kg Charge-air cooler for motor vehicles
US20070005046A1 (en) * 1999-05-03 2007-01-04 Lin J T Methods and apparatus for presbyopia correction using ultraviolet and infrared lasers
US20090235527A1 (en) * 2007-12-13 2009-09-24 Paul Degarate method of manufacturing handguards
US20120047978A1 (en) * 2010-06-15 2012-03-01 Walter Neumann Method of manufacturing a valve housing
CN102407255A (en) * 2010-09-21 2012-04-11 吉林省车桥汽车零部件有限公司 Production method of transition bridge bent tube of heavy-duty truck
EP3702060A4 (en) * 2018-02-14 2021-08-11 Sanoh Industrial Co., Ltd. Bending-forming die

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US5992197A (en) * 1997-03-28 1999-11-30 The Budd Company Forming technique using discrete heating zones
DE19733473C2 (en) * 1997-08-02 2000-07-06 Daimler Chrysler Ag Method and device for producing a connection of a lambda probe holder to an exhaust pipe
US6070445A (en) * 1997-10-29 2000-06-06 Trw Inc. Method of manufacturing the control arm
US6006568A (en) * 1998-03-20 1999-12-28 The Budd Company Multi-piece hydroforming tool
DE19829577B4 (en) * 1998-07-02 2005-06-16 Carsten Dipl.-Ing. Binder Method and device for producing parts by means of internal high-pressure forming technology
US6032501A (en) * 1999-02-09 2000-03-07 The Budd Company Method of hydroforming multi-lateral members from round tubes
DE19955506B4 (en) * 1999-11-18 2006-05-04 Alcan Technology & Management Ag Method for forming an initial profile or the like. Workpiece as well as profile for it
DE19955694A1 (en) 1999-11-18 2001-05-23 Alusuisse Tech & Man Ag Process for forming an initial profile or the like workpiece and profile therefor
JP4554812B2 (en) * 2000-12-25 2010-09-29 ヤマハ発動機株式会社 Exhaust pipe
DE10102896B4 (en) * 2001-01-23 2004-01-15 Benteler Automobiltechnik Gmbh Process for the production of an exhaust manifold
US6912884B2 (en) * 2001-06-25 2005-07-05 Mohamed T. Gharib Hydroforming process and apparatus for the same
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US9044802B2 (en) * 2010-03-26 2015-06-02 Weatherford Technology Holdings, Llc Dynamic load expansion test bench and method of expanding a tubular
CN103286181B (en) * 2013-04-25 2016-07-06 芜湖众力底盘系统有限公司 The bending method of automobile chassis component connecting rod
CN103506495A (en) * 2013-10-12 2014-01-15 芜湖开瑞金属科技有限公司 Bending and forming die for automobile hollow lifting hook
CN103506494A (en) * 2013-10-12 2014-01-15 芜湖开瑞金属科技有限公司 Bending forming die for solid lifting hook of automobile
CN103878241B (en) * 2013-11-20 2016-02-03 无锡曙光模具有限公司 The edge-cutting and hole-punching mould of automobile engine exhaust system inlet manifold
CN110576088B (en) * 2019-08-29 2021-01-26 四川航天长征装备制造有限公司 90-degree bending forming method and device for large-diameter thin pipe

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Cited By (35)

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US5974846A (en) * 1995-10-31 1999-11-02 Greenville Tool & Die Company Method of forming and piercing a tube
US5813266A (en) * 1995-10-31 1998-09-29 Greenville Tool & Die Company Method of forming and piercing a tube
US5630334A (en) * 1995-10-31 1997-05-20 Greenville Tool & Die Company Liquid impact tool forming mold
US5715718A (en) * 1996-02-27 1998-02-10 Benteler Automotive Corporation Hydroforming offset tube
WO1998030354A1 (en) * 1997-01-08 1998-07-16 Northrop Grumman Corporation Electromagnetically forming a tubular workpiece
US5826320A (en) * 1997-01-08 1998-10-27 Northrop Grumman Corporation Electromagnetically forming a tubular workpiece
US6860517B2 (en) 1997-08-28 2005-03-01 The Boeing Company Tubular metal part having pullouts
US6612020B2 (en) 1997-08-28 2003-09-02 The Boeing Company Apparatus for superplastic forming of tubing
US6430812B1 (en) 1997-08-28 2002-08-13 The Boeing Company Superplastic forming of tubing pull-outs
US6270126B1 (en) 1998-01-08 2001-08-07 Formrite Companies, Inc. Hydroformed hose fittings and related hose assemblies
US6658909B2 (en) * 1998-01-08 2003-12-09 Formrite Companies, Inc. Hose fitting and die for preparation
US6619698B2 (en) 1998-01-08 2003-09-16 Formrite Companies, Inc. Hose fitting and die for preparation
AU764040B2 (en) * 1998-01-08 2003-08-07 Formrite Companies, Inc. Hose fitting and die for preparation
US6047580A (en) * 1998-01-26 2000-04-11 Northrop Grumman Corporation Making hydropress formblocks and dies utilizing stereolithography and liquid molding compounds
US5901593A (en) * 1998-01-26 1999-05-11 Northrop Grumman Corporation Making hydropress formblocks and dies utilizing stereolithography and liquid molding compounds
US6098437A (en) * 1998-03-20 2000-08-08 The Budd Company Hydroformed control arm
US6434990B1 (en) 1999-01-08 2002-08-20 Formrite Companies, Inc. Hose fitting and die for preparation
US6089064A (en) * 1999-02-26 2000-07-18 Tauzer; Paul J. Sliding plug for applying end loads during isostatic bulge forming
US20070005046A1 (en) * 1999-05-03 2007-01-04 Lin J T Methods and apparatus for presbyopia correction using ultraviolet and infrared lasers
US6510920B1 (en) 1999-08-31 2003-01-28 Dana Corporation Vehicle exhaust system and method of manufacture
US6209372B1 (en) 1999-09-20 2001-04-03 The Budd Company Internal hydroformed reinforcements
US6305204B1 (en) 2000-07-13 2001-10-23 The Boeing Company Bulge forming machine
US6510720B1 (en) 2001-10-18 2003-01-28 Hartwick Professionals, Inc. Hydraulic pressure forming using a self aligning and activating die system
US20040217518A1 (en) * 2001-10-18 2004-11-04 Newman Craig Alan Compression molding using a self aligning and activating mold system
US7896065B2 (en) 2003-10-02 2011-03-01 Behr Gmbh & Co. Kg Charge-air cooler for motor vehicles
JP2007507679A (en) * 2003-10-02 2007-03-29 ベール ゲーエムベーハー ウント コー カーゲー Auto air supply cooler
WO2005031239A1 (en) * 2003-10-02 2005-04-07 Behr Gmbh & Co. Kg Charge-air cooler for motor vehicles
US20090235527A1 (en) * 2007-12-13 2009-09-24 Paul Degarate method of manufacturing handguards
US8544175B2 (en) * 2007-12-13 2013-10-01 Paul Degarate Method of manufacturing handguards
US20120047978A1 (en) * 2010-06-15 2012-03-01 Walter Neumann Method of manufacturing a valve housing
US8464566B2 (en) * 2010-06-15 2013-06-18 Buerkert Werke Gmbh Method of manufacturing a valve housing
CN102407255A (en) * 2010-09-21 2012-04-11 吉林省车桥汽车零部件有限公司 Production method of transition bridge bent tube of heavy-duty truck
CN102407255B (en) * 2010-09-21 2015-02-11 吉林省车桥汽车零部件有限公司 Production method of transition bridge bent tube of heavy-duty truck
EP3702060A4 (en) * 2018-02-14 2021-08-11 Sanoh Industrial Co., Ltd. Bending-forming die
TWI778166B (en) * 2018-02-14 2022-09-21 日商三櫻工業股份有限公司 Bending mold

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GB2287203A (en) 1995-09-13
DE19507611A1 (en) 1995-09-21
CA2143255C (en) 1998-03-31
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GB9503468D0 (en) 1995-04-12
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US5471857A (en) 1995-12-05
JP2634384B2 (en) 1997-07-23

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